For bartenders the appeal and general concept of New Year’s Eve is completely lost. It’s certainly more than just another night, but we don’t get to enjoy it the way the rest of the world does. I can’t remember any champagne toasts, no glitzy dresses, and I certainly don’t remember any midnight kisses worth noting, (last year’s was probably the most memorable, but it, too, is on the brink of being forcefully forgotten).

For bartenders, New Year’s Eve is spent behind the bar watching everyone else have fun. And I have to say, for someone who, as a hazard of the job, is constantly drinking socially (or recovering from drinking) starting each year behind the bar and sober is just where I want to be. It’s hopeful, even. Maybe next year I won’t be here. Maybe I will, because this life is just perfect, heaven to no one else but us, the ones who have chosen this life.

So this New Year’s Eve, while you’re spilling your drink on your new dress and throwing up in the bathroom (ah, memories), take a minute and don’t forget the ones who got you there: Your bartenders. We are ringing in the New Year as well, and we’d appreciate it if you didn’t suck. At the very least, get the puke into the toilet. Flush. Don’t fall asleep at the bar. Don’t yell. Be patient, we are going as fast as we can. Smile, it goes a long way. And above all, have fun.

It’s a new year, friends, and I for one can’t wait to mess it up all over again.